At BAJA FORGED, every project starts with a story, and this one runs deep. As a designer, fabricator, and lifelong Bronco enthusiast, I wanted to create something that honored where we came from while showing what’s next.

This 1968 Ford Bronco race rebuild is more than metal and horsepower—it’s a reflection of my journey and the BAJA FORGED belief that purpose and performance can coexist. Built with heart, heritage, and hard-earned skill, it fuses the soulful 60-year legacy of the half-cab Bronco with the raw capability of modern off-road engineering.

Our goal with this build was to challenge ourselves to think outside the box and to show what's possible when you blend classic design with cutting-edge engineering. And let me tell you, the results are spectacular.

Under the hood, we've packed a serious punch: a Ford Performance 7.3-liter Megazilla V8 crate engine with 612 horsepower, paired with a 10R80 automatic transmission. The beauty of a Ford Performance crate motor like this is that it's not just powerful; it's a high-level, engineered performance solution, meticulously designed and tested for optimal output and durability right out of the box. This makes for easier installation and increased reliability, knowing it's built to Ford's rigorous standards. This combination ensures our Bronco isn't just a beauty, but a beast on nearly any terrain.

Enthusiasts looking to customize and personalize their own Ford vehicles to their unique needs will find incredible inspiration with the array of Ford Performance Parts we've incorporated into this build. You can explore the full range of Ford Performance Parts and accessories to elevate your own build at performanceparts.ford.com.

But this Bronco is more than just a race truck; it’s performance with purpose. Through our nonprofit, Real Deal Revolution, this build serves as a powerful platform to inspire and empower the next generation, with a special focus on bringing more women into skilled trades and motorsports. We host hands-on workshops and offer mentorship opportunities, because we believe that when you see what's possible, you realize that you, too, can achieve greatness.

You'll first get to see this incredible machine debut at SEMA on November 4, 2025. Then, in 2026, we’re hitting the dirt, ready to compete in the 4500 Modified Stock Class at some of the most grueling races out there: King of the Hammers, Best in the Desert’s Mint 400, and the Vintage NORRA 1000.

This journey is about celebrating heritage, pushing boundaries, and fostering a community that inspires you to think outside the box. We can't wait for you to follow along as we take this 1968 Bronco from the show floor to the finish line, proving that with passion, innovation, and a little bit of BAJA FORGED spirit, anything is possible!

Theresa Contreras is the co-founder and president of BAJA FORGED